While traveling to Maine, you may notice what seem to be vendors on the side of the road. Perhaps the original food trucks? The reality is they are roadside stands based on the Honor System. You will find them scattered about the state. Here in Maine, we trust you to see the price and pay accordingly. Some stands even offer the opportunity to make the change if you only have big bills. Others will let you pay by check. or use a system such as Venmo. That is how much you are trusted. I guess we believe if you take advantage of one of these proprietors, that’s between you and the good man above. In all honesty, if someone was in dire need, I’m sure any of these fine folks would help in any way they can. That’s how we are around these parts.
Feel good about spending your money locally.
I have frequented many of these stands myself, and there is such a good feeling about spending your money here. These people make an honest living, and you are part of it. Please, if you enjoy their product, tell people. Word of mouth is their best advertisement, and they do appreciate it. Finding wholesome goods is so rare in our world, and it’s more important now than ever.
3 great choices of Honor System roadside stands in Maine.
Lincoln’s Farm Stand
Ellsworth, Maine
Enjoy homemade pies, whoopie pies, soups, and a variety of take-and-bake meals made fresh daily. Cash and Venmo are accepted. As of this writing some offerings were Mac and cheese, chili, cornbread, pumpkin bread, and homemade marshmallows.
YUM! Lincoln’s Farm Stand can be found on Facebook.
Momo’s Cheesecakes
Ellsworth, Maine
Not just a roadside stand, this place is a mecca. Momo decorates extensively for every holiday. Christmas is my favorite… I always say if the North Pole had a smell, this is it! Homemade cheesecake by the slice, or by the whole pie. Custom orders with notice.
Open 24 hours a day 7 days a week.
Honor System Potato Stands
Scattered about US 1 North of Houlton
Unfortunately, I do not know the exact name of this stand, but it was so enjoyable. There’s something about obtaining fresh potatoes from Aroostook County in the fall. For the few minutes, I was there, at least three tractor-trailer trucks hauling said potatoes gave us a big honk on their way through US Rte 1, just showing their appreciation for us buying their local product and supporting their livelihood.
Over 40 varieties are offered at Momo’s Cheesecakes in Ellsworth, Maine.
Honor System Fruit Vegetable Stands
Throughout late summer and early fall, there are multiple fruit and vegetable stands about the Maine roads. This is the prime of our harvest season on most of these goods, so it doesn’t get any fresher than this. We always find a couple to stop by on camping trips. This time of year yields fresh blueberries, corn, squash, potatoes, and tomatoes, among many others. My personal favorites will also have jarred items as well. Bread and butter pickles for me every time!
Honor System Stands offer more than goods for purchase.
Often one will find that when purchasing from one of these local stands, family children are involved, anywhere from helping to grow the product, to re-stocking the goods. This offers these children an opportunity to learn about hard work and the joy it can bring. Whether saving for school clothes or college, every little bit matters. These kids work hard, and it always feels good to help someone who is also helping themselves.
Don’t be afraid to leave a little extra.
These families are charging the minimum amount possible for a great product. Why not round up your purchase? A few dollars to you could mean the world to them.
Find an honor system stand on your next road trip.
Whether vacationing or a native of Maine, seek out one of these gems on your next road trip. They are usually easy to spot but may require a U-turn at your next convenient opportunity. Trust me, it will be worth a turn -around, just be sure to use your proper turn signals!